Hotels near Edinburgh Zoo

Top reasons to visit Edinburgh Zoo

• Engaging Animal Encounters: Experience thrilling up-close interactions with a variety of fascinating animals.
• Budongo Trail: Explore this captivating exhibit featuring chimpanzees and learn about their behaviour and conservation.
• Beautiful Outdoor Scenery: Enjoy leisurely walks through picturesque grounds and surrounding landscapes.
• Rich Cultural Exploration: Discover nearby historic castles, charming streets, and intriguing museums.
• Convenient Accommodation: Stay at nearby hotels like Holiday Inn for easy access to the zoo and city attractions.

Find great hotels near Edinburgh Zoo

Discover a variety of accommodation options near Edinburgh Zoo, from comfortable hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, you'll find welcoming spaces that cater to all, including LGBTQIA-friendly and pet-friendly options. With convenient access to the zoo and the city's vibrant attractions, your stay in Edinburgh promises to be both enjoyable and memorable.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: The Apex Grassmarket Hotel boasts a prime location with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, making it a great choice for those seeking both convenience and aesthetics. This eco-certified 4-star hotel, just 4.8km from Edinburgh Zoo, is ideal for business travellers and eco-conscious guests alike. Visitors appreciate the modern amenities, including spacious rooms, a stylish restaurant offering locally sourced cuisine, and a wellness centre featuring a sauna and gym facilities. Its vibrant surroundings in the Grassmarket area provide easy access to historic sites, shops, and restaurants, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket: Situated only 3.2km from Edinburgh Zoo, the Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is a contemporary 4-star accommodation that caters to eco-friendly and business travellers. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel features comfortable rooms equipped with modern conveniences. Guests enjoy on-site dining with a focus on sustainable practices, as well as a well-appointed fitness centre. The hotel's location near Haymarket Station makes it easy to explore the city’s attractions, while its blend of style and functionality ensures a pleasant stay.
• YOTEL Edinburgh: Located around 4.8km from Edinburgh Zoo, YOTEL Edinburgh offers a unique blend of modern design and technology, appealing to the tech-savvy traveller. This eco-conscious 4-star property features smart rooms complete with Smart TVs and adaptable workspaces. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including a breakfast buffet and a stylish restaurant. With a 24-hour fitness facility and proximity to the city centre, YOTEL Edinburgh is an excellent choice for those looking to combine comfort with convenience during their stay.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo offers a delightful gateway to explore the vibrant city surroundings. Stroll along Corstorphine Road, where friendly locals and family-friendly attractions abound. Venture to the West End for a lively atmosphere filled with eclectic shops and charming cafés. The historical essence of the area, combined with its romantic spots, makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration. Immerse yourself in the warm community vibe while discovering Edinburgh’s unique charm.

• Edinburgh: As the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis teeming with culture and history. Edinburgh Zoo is conveniently located within the city, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. The city experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak times from July to September. Travellers flock to Edinburgh for its rich cultural offerings, family-friendly attractions, and bustling city life. Notable highlights include the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the historic Royal Mile, and a variety of theatres and shopping venues that cater to all tastes.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Situated approximately 4.8km from Edinburgh Zoo, Old Town Edinburgh is a charming neighbourhood steeped in history. It attracts visitors year-round, particularly from April to July. Known for its medieval streets and architecture, Old Town offers a perfect blend of cultural and family experiences. The area is home to a plethora of shops, educational venues, and theatres. Highlights include the stunning St Giles' Cathedral, the atmospheric Grassmarket, and various event conference venues that host a range of activities throughout the year.
• Corstorphine: Corstorphine is a delightful neighbourhood that encompasses Edinburgh Zoo, making it a prime spot for family outings and outdoor activities. Visitor numbers are consistent throughout the year, with peaks in April, July, and September. In addition to the zoo, Corstorphine offers a variety of shopping areas, entertainment facilities, and theatres. Noteworthy attractions include the historic Corstorphine Castle and local sports facilities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for those looking to explore both culture and recreation.

Things to do near Edinburgh Zoo

Shopping

Edinburgh Zoo offers a unique shopping experience with its gift shop featuring wildlife-themed souvenirs and toys. If you're up for a drive, you can visit the Ocean Terminal shopping centre, around 6.4km away, which boasts a range of shops and dining options along with stunning views of the waterfront.

Recreation

At Edinburgh Zoo, enjoy a tranquil stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens while observing the animals in their naturalistic habitats. Participate in mindfulness sessions or yoga classes set against the backdrop of exotic wildlife, allowing you to connect with nature and enhance your well-being.

Adventure

Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 25.7km from Edinburgh Zoo, offers an exhilarating experience for motorsport enthusiasts. Feel the adrenaline rush as you witness thrilling races or even take part in driving experiences, all amidst the stunning Scottish landscape, perfect for those seeking adventure and speed.

Nightlife

After your visit to Edinburgh Zoo, explore the nearby Bongo Club for vibrant music and dancing. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed evening at The Cameo Cinema, where you can catch a classic film in a charming setting. Both venues offer a unique atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the city's nightlife.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh Zoo

To save money on your visit to Edinburgh Zoo, consider travelling during the off-peak months from January to March when accommodation prices are lower. For the best hotel deals, book at least a month in advance, and keep an eye on last-minute offers on platforms like Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search and price filters to find budget-friendly options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Edinburgh Zoo are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Edinburgh Zoo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Edinburgh Zoo is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and special offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel stay near Edinburgh Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Edinburgh Zoo

During your visit to Edinburgh Zoo, explore a variety of attractions including charming streets, historic castles, and intriguing museums that offer a rich cultural experience. Enjoy a leisurely walk from the zoo to take in the outdoor scenery, and don't miss the zoo entrance for an exciting day ahead. Consider staying at the nearby Holiday Inn Edinburgh Zoo for convenient access to these local points of interest.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched majestically on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers a glimpse into Scotland's rich history and culture. Explore its ancient stone walls, admire the stunning views of the city, and discover the Crown Jewels, all while soaking in a romantic atmosphere that transports you through time.
• Princes Street: Known for its vibrant city vibes, Princes Street is the heart of Edinburgh’s shopping scene. Lined with a mix of high-street brands and local boutiques, it also boasts beautiful gardens and views of the castle, making it a lively spot for both shopping and relaxation.
• George Street: A hub of elegance and sophistication, George Street features a variety of upscale shops, restaurants, and bars. Its charming architecture and bustling atmosphere create a fashionable setting, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a delightful meal.

Best time to go to Edinburgh Zoo

The best time to visit Edinburgh Zoo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh Zoo

Visiting EDInburgh Zoo is easily accessible from two major airports. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 6.4km away and offers convenient hotels such as the 5-star Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, 9.7km from the airport. Alternatively, GLAsgow Airport (GLA) is 72.4km away, with excellent options like the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland, 6.4km from GLA, providing shuttle services. Newcastle Airport (NCL) is 141.6km distant, with 4-star hotels like Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead, 9.7km from the airport, ensuring a comfortable stay. Each airport offers various transport services to facilitate your journey to the zoo.